Welcome from our sUPERINTENDENT, dR. ETHAN HILDRETH

Dear DAA Community,

As the holy month of Ramadan is approaching, we would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy and blessed Ramadan, and to remind you of its significance and provide some information on the dos and don'ts and Ramadan etiquette.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion to Allah. Fasting from dawn to sunset is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and during Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. It is also a time for giving to charity and engaging in acts of kindness and generosity.

The significance of the month of Ramadan is rooted in the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. In the Quran, the month of Ramadan is mentioned as a time when the revelation of the Quran began. According to Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185, the Quran was revealed in the month of Ramadan:

"The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion." [Quran 2:185]

Self- purification is the goal and objective of fasting in Islam. The heart and mind must be with Muslims in fasting. Because fast in its real sense, will not be complete unless your thoughts, emotions,  actions, and all aspects of your life become pure, clean, and free from blemish.

Muslims view Ramadan as a tool that enriches the mind, body, and soul. It provides us an opportunity to stop, think and reflect. Refraining from food allows us to think that we are connected with the entirety of humanity through very basic needs. 

To ensure that everyone has a smooth and respectful Ramadan experience, we kindly request that parents and students follow the following dos and don'ts:

Dos:

• Do greet your Muslim friends and colleagues with "Ramadan Kareem" or "Ramadan Mubarak" to show your respect and support.

• Do be patient and understanding with those who are fasting, as they may feel tired or irritable during the day.

• Do be respectful of those who are fasting by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public places during the day.

• Do participate in acts of charity and kindness, as this is a time for giving and generosity.

Don'ts:

• Don't criticize or judge those who are fasting, as this is a personal choice and an act of devotion.

• Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during the day, as this can be seen as disrespectful to those who are fasting.

• Don't engage in excessive or loud activities that may disturb those who are fasting, such as playing loud music or hosting parties.

Ramadan Etiquettes:

As a school community, we encourage our students to observe the following Ramadan etiquettes:

• Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when attending religious events or gatherings.

• Use appropriate language and avoid using foul language or engaging in gossip or negative talk.

• Show respect for elders and authority figures, and be mindful of their needs and preferences.

• Avoid wasting food or resources, and be mindful of the impact of your actions on others and the environment.

We also encourage parents to discuss Ramadan etiquettes with their children and to reinforce the importance of respecting all religious traditions and beliefs.

We wish all of our Muslim families a blessed and peaceful Ramadan!

Sincerely,

DAA Islamic Department